Lugenda Wilderness Camp – a birder’s paradise

The call is out – and it’s aimed at birders…

Lugenda Wilderness Camp, in the Niassa Reserve on the eastern bank of the Lugenda River in northern Mozambique, will open on May 1 for the 2013 season.

May and June are prime birding months and with Lugenda’s varied terrain there are more than 400 species to view including the rare Angola pitta (Pitta angolensis), Pel’s fishing owl (Scotopelia peli), and an abundant raptor population.

For those who want more than bird watching, the reserve – near the Tanzanian border – is one of the largest protected Miombo forest ecosystems in the world. It covers an area of 42,000km² and supports the greatest concentration of wildlife in the country. Game drives to view the varied and prolific wildlife – that includes four of the big five as well as the endangered Cape hunting dog – are the main activity offered here.

There is a choice of itineraries for those wanting to get the most out of their journey into the wilderness. While on safari and away from Lugenda Wilderness Camp, nights are spent in a mobile camp, with the option to sleep under the stars. Mattresses and cotton linen ensure a comfortable night. Bucket showers and a bush latrine offer rustic ‘home comforts’. Meals are freshly prepared and a selection of wine and beer is available. It’s always advisable to have a professional guide on adventures such as these.

Lugenda Wilderness Camp, situated within the Ngalongue Mountains, is aimed at the discerning few who appreciate wildlife, the wilderness and complete seclusion. Due to the nature of this destination it has a no children under 12 policy.

Luxury accommodation comprises a main building with reading lounge, all inclusive bar and dining area; eight luxury east African-style tents – six with king-size beds and two are twin bedded. All tents have en-suite bathrooms with Victorian-style deep baths and showers, ceiling fans, hair dryers, safes and wooden viewing decks. The tents are beneath large, wild fig trees that attract elephant in the early mornings and late afternoons.

For ease of entry it also has its own airstrip, with fly-in access from Pemba International Airport.